I Timothy 3:1–16

May 20, 2013

"Leaders must know God's Word and have a mature Christian lifestyle. Every Christian ought to pursue these characteristics. Leaders must already have them."  ~ From the Life Lesson in my NCV Bible.

In this chapter Paul lists the attributes of a leader. Leaders must:

• Not give people a reason to criticize them
• Have only one wife (spouse)
• Be self-controlled
• Be wise
• Be respected by others
• Ready to welcome guests
• Able to teach
• Not drink too much
• Not like to fight
• Be gentle
• Be peaceable
• Not seeking wealth
• Be a good family leader
• Have children who respect God
• Not be a new believer
• Have respect from people inside and outside the church
• Be sincere
• Be above approach
• Not be quarrelsome
• Not try to get rich by cheating others (dishonest gain)
• Keep and hold the truths of God
• Be tested
• Be bold in their faith 

"If the church can only be the church when it exists for others, then the Christian can only be truly Christian when he or she is willing to be emptied out for others. There are no harder words in all of Scripture than Jesus' commandment that we love one another as He loved us – which means love that lays down its life for another." ~ From The Body by Charles Colson.

Next Entry: I Timothy 4:1 – 6:21